Three arrested on drug charges

Dave Gossett

For The Review

STEUBENVILLE — Three city residents were arrested during a series of Thursday night search warrant executions and now face drug charges and gun violations.

Jason Hanlin of the Jefferson County Drug Task Force said the search warrants were issued for different addresses in the city. “Ronald Leftridge of 1304 Park St. was charged with two counts of drug trafficking and one count of possession of a weapon under a disability. William Grimes, 25, of 1310 Maryland Ave. was charged with two counts of drug trafficking, one count of possession of a weapon under a disability and possession of 15 grams of pure fentanyl and $1,500 in cash. Marcus C. Hogan of 1648 Ridge Ave. was charged with two counts of drug trafficking and possession of 50 grams of crack cocaine as well as possession of a weapon under a disability and $22,000 in cash,” explained Hanlin.

“These were separate investigations that had been under way for the past several weeks. Together these raids Thursday resulted in a significant dent in the local drug trade,” said Hanlin.

“This is the first time we have found pure fentanyl during a drug raid. But we are now seeing more heroin seized during traffic stops on drug arrests that contains fentanyl. It is a dangerous combination when heroin is mixed with fentanyl. Heroin by itself is a very addictive drug, but when you add fentanyl it can mean death,” stated Hanlin.

“Our area, as well as the nation, is facing a drug crisis. Adding fentanyl will mean more drug related deaths,” added Hanlin. He noted six guns were seized during the search warrants, including an assault rifle, 100 rounds of ammunition for the assault rifle and handguns.